Flag-raising ceremony and campaign launch for Women’s Resources
November 25 was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the First Day of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence. The Wrapped in Courage Flag Raising Ceremony hosted by Women’s Resources of Kawartha Lakes at City Hall on Friday was well attended.
The new Mayor, Doug Elmslie and Deputy Mayor, Tracy Richardson spoke of how important it is to work together and find ways to eradicate women abuse in our community. Also attending were a number of councillors, Kawartha Lakes Police Chief Mark Mitchell as well as staff, Board members and many supporters of Women’s Resources. Lori Watson, Executive Director and Jane Chapman, Board Chair discussed the extensive work Women’s Resources undertakes to ensure women who come to them for help are able to receive the counselling and resources they need to heal from the abuse they have had the courage to leave behind. A proclamation was read that is shared by many other violence against women agencies throughout Ontario and members of OAITH, Ontario Association of Interval and Transitional Houses, all working collectively to help end violence against women.
After the Flag Raising, Women’s Resources launched the public phase of their “Open The Door” Capital Campaign to raise much needed funds for the renovation of their newly acquired building on Logie Street that will house their 2nd stage housing program. The renovated property will have six apartments, rent geared to income, that will provide housing for up to 2 years for women, with or without children, who are rebuilding their lives after leaving abusive situations.
Tonya Kraan, Board member and Capital Campaign Committee member outlined the initiative and the $500,000 commitment in order to complete the renovation. To date, more than 30% of the goal has been raised, through private and corporate donations, service clubs and grants. Attending and presenting their generous donations to the project were donors Frank Geerlinks from Kawartha Home Hardware Group, Karissa Ward and Melissa Wemyss from Wards Lawyers, Brad Fraser from Kinsmen Club of Lindsay and Jen Kerstens from Rogers Group.
Learn more at https://womensresources.ca/
To hear the voices – and emotion – at this ceremony, check out the latest episode of The Advocate Podcast: Stories from Kawartha Lakes. https://bit.ly/3GYUh9H
